The Scientific Revolution and Empiricism

Study Notes

The Scientific Revolution

Occurred during the 16th and 17th centuries, transitioning from magical-religious beliefs to scientific principles.
Copernicus introduced heliocentric theory, proposing that the Earth revolves around the sun.
Kepler confirmed Copernicus through explanations of planetary motion.
Galileo utilized the telescope to support heliocentrism, facing challenges from the Church.
Newton established the law of gravity and clarified planetary orbits.
Vesalius advanced knowledge of human anatomy, while Harvey discovered the circulation of blood.
Boyle's research led to the understanding of gas properties, and Lavoisier created a systematic approach to naming elements.
Rene Descartes emphasized rationalism, asserting that reason is the primary source of knowledge.
Francis Bacon developed the scientific method, focusing on observation and experimentation.

Empiricism

Centers around knowledge acquisition through sensory experience and observation.
Key figures include John Locke, George Berkeley, and David Hume.
Belief system dismisses innate ideas, asserting that learning is derived from experience.
Employs the inductive method, drawing general conclusions from specific observations.

Rationalism

Asserts that knowledge is gained through reasoning and logic, in contrast to experience.
Major proponents include Rene Descartes, Baruch Spinoza, and Gottfried Leibnitz.
Supports the existence of innate ideas, positing that certain concepts are inherent.
Utilizes the deductive method, where general principles inform specific conclusions.

The Enlightenment

Took place in the 18th century, applying scientific thought to societal structures, governance, and human rights.
Intellectuals advocated for liberty, equality, and individual rights, challenging traditional authority.
Fueled advancements in art, music, literature, and science while contributing to the decline of monarchies.
Resulted in the emergence of republics with constitutional governance.

The French Revolution

Initiated in 1789, it aimed to overthrow the French monarchy and establish a republic.
The Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen proclaimed equality, freedom, and people's sovereignty.
Abolished privileges previously held by the clergy and aristocracy, prompting the separation of church and state.
Spurred revolutionary movements across Europe and Latin America.

The Industrial Revolution

Began in the 18th century in England, marking a transition from agrarian society to an industrial economy.
The urban population surged, leading to the growth of the middle and working classes.
Development of capitalism emerged, characterized by private ownership of industries, alongside the rise of socialism advocating for government industry control.
Innovations such as the steam locomotive significantly enhanced transportation and production capabilities.

Positivism and Evolutionism

Emerged in the 19th century, emphasizing the scientific study of society and human behavior.
Positivism, attributed to Auguste Comte, posits that society is amenable to scientific methodologies.
Evolutionism, influenced by Herbert Spencer and Charles Darwin, views society as evolving through developmental stages akin to living organisms.

Description

Explore the pivotal changes during the Scientific Revolution, highlighting key figures such as Copernicus, Galileo, and Newton. Understand the transition from magical beliefs to empirical observation and the development of the scientific method. Test your knowledge of this transformative period in history.